Which of the following is an example of a dispositive motion?

• A. Motion to compel discovery.
• B. Motion for protective order.
• C. Motion for leave to amend.
• D. Motion for summary judgment.

Answer: (D)

Dispositive motions aim to end all or part of a case without a trial. When the record shows no genuine dispute about material facts and the law supports judgment for one side, the court can grant judgment as a matter of law, avoiding the need for trial. A motion for summary judgment is the clear example: it asks the court to enter judgment based on the law applied to undisputed facts, so the case or a claim can be resolved without a trial.

The other options focus on discovery or pleading changes rather than the merits of the case. A motion to compel discovery seeks to obtain information needed for the case; it does not dispose of claims. A protective order restricts or governs discovery to protect a party or privilege; it also doesn’t decide the outcome of the case. A motion for leave to amend requests permission to change the pleadings, which may shape the case but does not itself resolve the merits unless the amendment results in a dispositive ruling.